Drapac Pro Cycling have kick started their Australian national titles with victory by its youngest rider, Jordan Kerby, in the U23 men's time trial. Kerby rode to the win by a meagre two tenths of second ahead of Harry Carpenter (SA). Rounding out the podium was Miles Scotson who was 14 seconds off Kerby's pace.

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On the flat and windy 28km course in Burrumbeet, a change from last year's course around Lake Wendouree, Kerby repaid the faith placed in him by Drapac.

"I like to start the year with a bang and confirm the faith and belief that Drapac have put in me. There are a million good guys out there and they decided to sign me," Kerby told Cyclingnews.

"I'm very grateful for that and super happy to pay them back a bit straight away."

The 2013 National Road Series victor Jack Haig was over a minute down on Kerby's time with only Carpenter and Scotson within a minute.

"I wasn't aware of Harry (Carpenter) but I was aware of Alex Morgan and Campbell Flakemore and Jack (Haig) because I could see them and I knew I was up on them which gave me good motivation," Kerby explained.

"I wasn't aware of Harry but it was a great ride by him. I didn't expect it and couldn't see happening but it shows he's very talented and puts in the work."

Kerby had announced pre-race that he was targeting a podium position with the hope of setting up a successful week for the Pro-Continental squad. The change to aerodynamic Swift bikes was welcomed by Kerby who suggested that the new stead may have helped him to the win.

"We only jumped on these a week and half-a-go and (the bike) fits perfectly. It rides well, it's nice and aerodynamic and it definitely goes fast," Kerby said.

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